New safety standard in the works as Singapore’s skyrise greenery booms
Two plots of about 0.6ha, each along Neo Tiew Road, will be used for the pilot.
Singapore is developing a new industry standard to enhance the safety and maintenance of rooftop and vertical greenery as its prominence has surged. Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan announced the initiative on October 17, stating that a unified set of standards will clarify expectations for high-quality skyrise greenery for practitioners, businesses, and clients. Singapore has surpassed its initial goal of 200 hectares of skyrise greenery by 2030, with over 255 hectares present as of the end of 2025.
The standard, set to be published by the end of 2027, will outline guidelines for design, installation, and maintenance of greenery on buildings. It will address long-term maintenance, safe access, and work practices, ensuring consistent quality and capability across projects. NParks and the Singapore Institute of Landscape Architects will lead the development of the standard, with Enterprise Singapore overseeing the process.
Additionally, to address the issue of limited storage space for landscape businesses, Tan introduced a Temporary Occupation Licence (TOL) scheme. Starting January 2, 2027, eligible businesses can apply for one-year licences to use designated nursery land for temporary storage of plants and trees. Two plots in Lim Chu Kang will undergo a pilot program before potential expansion.
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